The Greencards – Movin’ On

Aptly named, this trio of Austin, Texas, transplants came from Australia and England to pursue one of America’s most traditional musical forms, bluegrass-inflected country. Instrumental romps like “Jolly Hockeysticks,” “Small Tots,” “Leonardo’s Ride” and the mid-section of “You Pulled Me Out,” find no problems in translation. Barnburner virtuoso solos on mandolin, fiddle and from guest guitarists reveal a grasp of the vernacular. Check out bassist Carol Young’s voice drawl on the title track and Robert Earl Keen’s “Love’s a Word I Never Throw Around,” and you’ll be reminded accents are usually spoken, not sung. Her fellow Aussie, Kym Warner, and Brit Eamon McLaughlin trade vocals as well, and they’ve found a solid harmony footing with Young on Gillian Welch’s “Caleb Meyer.” But The Greencards’ real power remains their stunning instrumental prowess.